PROTECTING YOUR CHILD

It has been said that children are our most valuable resource. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary that we take positive measures to insure their safety and prevent them from becoming victims of crime.

Parents...

· Never leave children alone; not at home, in a vehicle, at play, or anywhere.

· Define what a STRANGER is. Let your kids know that just because they see someone everyday (e.g. mailman, paperboy, neighbor, etc.) it does not mean these people are not strangers.

· Teach your children their full name, your name, full address, and phone number, including area codes. Teach them how to use a phone.

· Teach your children the "What if...?" Game, making up different dangerous situations that they might encounter and helping them play out what they would do in that situation.

· Take the time to talk to your children and be alert to any noticeable changes in their behavior or attitude toward an adult or teenager; it may be a sign of sexual abuse.

· Set up procedures with your child's school or day care center as to whom the child will be released to other than yourself, and what notification procedure they are to follow if the child does not show up on time.

· Teach your children that thier body is private and no one has the right to touch them in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable. If anyone touches them in a wrong way they should: SAY NO, GET AWAY, and TELL SOMEONE they trust.